Role

:

Composer

Country

:

Italy

Birth

:

ca. 1524 in Piacenza, Italy

Death

:

April 21, 1557 in Venice, Italy

Period

:

Renaissance

Genre

:

Keyboard

 

 

Vocal

 

Girolamo Parabosco was an Italian composer and musician who lived during the Renaissance period. He was born in Venice in 1524, and little is known about his early life and education. However, it is believed that he received his musical training in Venice, which was a hub of musical activity during the Renaissance. Parabosco was a multi-talented musician who played several instruments, including the lute, viola da gamba, and harpsichord. He was also a singer and composer, and his works were highly regarded during his lifetime. Parabosco was known for his skill in improvisation, and he was often called upon to perform at courtly events and other social gatherings. Parabosco's music was influenced by the prevailing musical styles of the Renaissance, which emphasized polyphony and the use of counterpoint. His compositions were characterized by their intricate harmonies and complex rhythms, and he was known for his use of chromaticism and dissonance. One of Parabosco's most famous works is his collection of madrigals, which were published in 1557 under the title "Il primo libro de madrigali a quattro voci." The collection contains 20 madrigals, which are written for four voices and are based on texts by various poets. The madrigals are notable for their expressive melodies and intricate harmonies, and they showcase Parabosco's skill as a composer. In addition to his madrigals, Parabosco also composed instrumental music, including pieces for the lute and viola da gamba. One of his most famous instrumental works is his collection of lute pieces, which were published in 1563 under the title "Intavolatura di liuto." The collection contains 36 pieces, which are written in a variety of styles, including dances, fantasias, and ricercars. Parabosco's music was highly regarded during his lifetime, and he was considered one of the leading composers of his time. His works were widely performed and published, and they influenced many other composers who came after him. However, despite his success, Parabosco's life was not without its challenges. In 1569, Parabosco was accused of stealing a lute from a fellow musician. The accusation was made by a man named Giovanni Battista Grillo, who claimed that Parabosco had stolen the lute from him and sold it to another musician. Parabosco denied the accusation, but he was arrested and imprisoned for several months. After his release from prison, Parabosco continued to compose and perform music, but his reputation was tarnished by the scandal. He died in Venice in 1577, at the age of 53. Despite the challenges he faced in his life, Girolamo Parabosco left a lasting legacy in the world of classical music. His compositions continue to be performed and studied today, and they are considered important examples of Renaissance music. Parabosco's skill as a composer and musician helped to shape the musical landscape of his time, and his influence can still be felt in the music of today.

More....